Scam Alert

Warning: Scam phone call claiming to be from the NHS
A resident of a neighbouring town received a call yesterday claiming to be from the National Health Service in relation to her being on the vulnerable list. The caller said that they needed details of her bank account just in case she needed anyone to go shopping for her.
This is a scam call. You will never be asked for your bank details by any health provider who contacts you to advise that you are either in the group that needs to be shielded or the high risk group.
If you need support with shopping or medication delivery, and don't have friends or family that can help, phone the Council's Hotline number 0151 907 8363.

Council Tax Reduction Scam
Halton Residents need to be aware of an email scam currently circulating regarding Council tax reductions. The email claims it is from the UK Government, it is not, it is a scam.
The email states you are due hundreds of pound in a rebate and they will transfer the money to your credit or debit card. The email goes on to further state you just need to click a link in the email to begin the process.
This is a blatant attempt to try and get your debit/credit card details and also have you access a website (via the link) which could be harmful to your computer.
Simply delete this email.

Coronavirus Voucher Scam
Halton Trading Standards wants to advise its residents about an online voucher scam designed to take advantage of people’s desperation during the pandemic quarantine.
The voucher scam is themed around the pandemic quarantine. The scammers make an email in the branding of popular supermarket chains and inform the recipient that they have received a money-off voucher to assist with purchases during the quarantine.
The email then directs the recipient to click a link so that they may claim the coupon. Rather than being a kind offer from some of Britain’s most popular chains, it is a fraudulent email, which aims to steal the credit card details of the recipient.
Residents should be wary of clicking links and/or inputting their card details into unsolicited emails and associated websites. If an offer sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

If you or somebody you know has been caught out by a scam or fraud please contact one of Halton Trading Standards specialist officers, Linda or Sue on 0151 511 8785 or 0151 511 8775, who are already working with people in Halton who have lost thousands of pounds to scams.
Many thanks
Paul